Sip the comforting warmth of Mysore Rasam, a traditional South Indian spiced broth packed with immune-boosting ingredients. This light, healthy vegetarian dish is ideal for calorie deficit, DASH diet, and family meals.
Rinse the toor dal thoroughly, combine with 1 cup water, and cook in a saucepan over medium heat until soft and mushy (about 15 minutes).
Dry roast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, and dry red chili in a skillet over medium-low heat until aromatic (2–3 minutes). Cool, then blend with grated coconut and 2 tbsp water to form a smooth paste.
Chop the tomato and add it to a pot with the tamarind pulp, 2 cups water, turmeric powder, and salt. Simmer on medium for 6–8 minutes until tomato softens.
Add cooked dal and the coconut-spice paste to the tomato-tamarind mixture, then pour in 1 more cup water. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.
For tempering, heat vegetable oil in a small pan. Add mustard seeds and let them crackle, then add asafoetida and curry leaves. Pour immediately into the hot rasam.
Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving. Serve hot.